Suggesting a promotion or raise at work can make an employee very nervous. Many people are uncomfortable talking about money, and money people fear confrontation of any form. However, if you do not suggest a raise you think you deserve, there is a good chance you will be stuck working for a rate lower than you deserve. It is rare that another employee or your boss will point out that you deserve a raise. Here’s how to step up and speak up for yourself and what you deserve:
-First, make sure you deserve the raise. It seems obvious, but many people are quick to jump at the chance for more money, without real reason. How long have you been working at the company? If you’ve been there under a year, you have not been working there long enough to deserve more money. Your boss may perceive you as just working for the money. If you’ve been there over a year, what have you done to go above and beyond your job description? If the answer is nothing, you shouldn’t suggest it.
-Before you think about suggesting a raise, make a list of all the things that you do for the company that goes above your job description. Have you stayed late for weeks? Have you helped re-file portfolios, or cleaned file cabinets? Make yourself seem indispensable to the company, and show them that you are a valuable asset to them.
-What are your plans for the future? Should you get the raise you are proposing, what will you continue to do to work harder? Will you take on additional tasks? Will you come in earlier, or stay later? With more money, comes more responsibility.
Don’t be afraid to ask for something if you believe that you deserve it. Speak up and have your points prepared. Your boss will be impressed that you have everything all planned out.
